Systems, devices, and methods for increasing consumer access to first aid supplies

ABSTRACT

Systems and dispensers, including methods of using the same, for dispensing bandages comprising: a dispenser body comprising a receiving surface with a first retention element and a hinged flap with a second retention element, wherein the hinged flap is foldable to overlay at least a portion of the receiving surface; and at least one bandage pack disposed on the receiving surface, wherein the bandage pack comprises at least one individually wrapped bandage; provided that when the hinged flap is folded to overlay the receiving surface, a first retention element reversibly interlocks with a second retention element thus securely retaining the at least one bandage pack.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Medical emergencies pose a serious and prevalent threat to society.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),Americans suffered 29.6 million non-fatal injuries in 2009 and 31.5million non-fatal injuries in 2010. Over 2.3 million non-fatal injurieseach year are cuts or punctures. Emergency departments in the UnitedStates average approximately 400 visits for each 1000 people every year.The CDC further reports that injuries in the home result in about 30% ofall injury-related emergency department visits. The National Institutesof Health and the Mayo Clinic recommend immediately covering wounds suchas cuts, scrapes, and punctures with a sterile bandage.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Effective first aid requires easy and rapid access to sterile dressingsappropriate to cover, protect, and help stop bleeding from a variety ofwounds such as cuts, scrapes, and punctures. Consumers should haveready, ubiquitous access to dressings, such as sterile bandages.Moreover, bandages should be dispensed in a way that allowsuncomplicated application with one hand. Because many injuries occur inthe home, bandage dispensers should be inexpensive, yet attractive toencourage consumers to place them in multiple, easily accessed locationsthroughout their homes. Accordingly, we have identified a long-felt andunmet need for a consumer bandage dispenser with an inexpensive tomanufacture design effective to retain a variety of bandage packs suchthat individual bandages are dispensed clean and ready to apply. Such adispenser should also be easily refilled when bandage packs aredepleted.

In one aspect, disclosed herein are systems for dispensing bandagescomprising: a dispenser body comprising a receiving surface with a firstretention element and a hinged flap with a second retention element,wherein the hinged flap is foldable to overlay at least a portion of thereceiving surface; and at least one bandage pack disposed on saidreceiving surface, wherein said bandage pack comprises at least oneindividually wrapped bandage; provided that when the hinged flap isfolded to overlay said receiving surface, a first retention elementreversibly interlocks with a second retention element thus securelyretaining said at least one bandage pack. In some embodiments, a firstretention element, a second retention element, or both pass through atleast one bandage pack. In some embodiments, the interlocking resultsfrom a first retention element fitting into a second retention elementor vice versa. In some embodiments, the dispenser body comprises one ormore pairs of opposing retention elements such that when a hinged flapis folded to overlay the receiving surface, each first retention elementaligns with and opposes a second retention element. In furtherembodiments, the system comprises 1-10 pairs of opposing retentionelements. In still further embodiments, the system comprises 2 pairs ofopposing retention elements. In still further embodiments, the systemcomprises 1 pair of opposing retention elements. In some embodiments, atleast one pair of opposing retention elements passes through at leastone bandage pack. In some embodiments, the system comprises 1-10 bandagepacks. In further embodiments, the system comprises 2 bandage packs. Instill further embodiments, the system comprises 1 bandage pack. In someembodiments, the system comprises a hinged flap corresponding to eachbandage pack. In further embodiments, each bandage pack comprises 3 to50 individually wrapped bandages. In further embodiments, each bandagepack comprises one or more pre-formed openings for passage of retentionelements. In further embodiments, the dispenser body is substantiallybox-shaped. In further embodiments, the flap is hinged by thin, flexiblematerial. In some embodiments, each bandage pack comprises a rigid coverand a plurality of individually wrapped bandages, wherein theindividually wrapped bandages are bound to each other and to the cover,wherein removal of an individual bandage from the pack causes the boundportion of the wrapper to be retained, thus freeing and partiallyexposing a bandage. In some embodiments, the individually wrappedbandages are bound to each other and to the cover along a bottom edge.In some embodiments, each bandage pack includes a pre-formed opening. Infurther embodiments, a pre-formed opening allows one or more elements ofa bandage dispenser (e.g., retention elements, etc.) to pass through apack to secure a pack to a receiving surface, thus retaining a pack in adispenser. In some embodiments, each bandage pack comprises 3 to 50individually wrapped bandages. In further embodiments, each bandage packcomprises 5 to 40 individually wrapped bandages. In still furtherembodiments, each bandage pack comprises 10 to 20 individually wrappedbandages. In some embodiments, the bandage packs are the same size. Inother embodiments, the bandage packs are not the same size. In someembodiments, the bandage packs have sizes selected from: 72 mm wide×40mm deep×107 mm long, 62 mm wide×40 mm deep×107 mm long, 60 mm wide×40 mmdeep×107 mm long, 80 mm wide×27 mm deep×107 mm long, 80 mm wide×34 mmdeep×107 mm long, and 80 mm wide×40 mm deep×107 mm long. In someembodiments, the individually wrapped bandages have sizes selected from:45 mm×51 mm, 40 mm×10 mm, 76 mm×38 mm, 76 mm×25 mm, and 76 mm×19 mm. Insome embodiments, the dispenser body further comprises a surface withpre-drilled holes to facilitate mounting the dispenser to a fixedsurface. In some embodiments, the dispenser body further comprises asurface with adhesive to facilitate mounting the dispenser to a fixedsurface.

In another aspect, disclosed herein are systems for dispensingindividual bandages comprising: a dispenser body comprising asubstantially rectangular receiving surface with one or more firstretention elements; a hinged flap with one or more second retentionelements, wherein the hinged flap is foldable to overlay at least aportion of the receiving surface such that each first retention elementaligns with and opposes a second retention element; one or more thirdretention elements on a side opposite the hinged flap; one or morebandage packs disposed on said receiving surface, wherein each saidbandage pack comprises a plurality of individually wrapped bandages,wherein removal of an individual bandage from said pack causes a portionof the wrapper to be retained, thus freeing and partially exposing thebandage; provided that when the hinged flap is folded to overlay thereceiving surface each first retention element passes through a bandagepack and reversibly interlocks with a second retention element. In someembodiments, the interlocking results from a first retention elementfitting into a second retention element or vice versa. In someembodiments, the system comprises 1-10 pairs of opposing retentionelements. In further embodiments, the system comprises 2 pairs ofopposing retention elements. In still further embodiments, the systemcomprises 1 pair of opposing retention elements. In some embodiments,the system comprises 1-10 bandage packs. In further embodiments, thesystem comprises 2 bandage packs. In still further embodiments, thesystem comprises 1 bandage pack. In some embodiments, the systemcomprises a hinged flap corresponding to each bandage pack. In someembodiments, each bandage pack comprises 3 to 50 individually wrappedbandages. In some embodiments, each bandage pack comprises one or morepre-formed openings for passage of retention elements. In someembodiments, the flap is hinged by thin, flexible material.

In yet another aspect, disclosed herein are bandage dispenserscomprising: a bandage pack receiving surface with one or more firstretention elements; and a hinged flap with one or more second retentionelements, wherein the hinged flap is foldable to overlay at least aportion of the receiving surface such that each first retention elementaligns with, opposes, and reversibly interlocks with a second retentionelement. In some embodiments, the bandage dispenser further comprisesone or more third retention elements on a side opposite the hinged flap.In some embodiments, the first and second retention elements are adaptedto retain one or more bandage packs by passing through an opening insaid packs. In some embodiments, the interlocking results from a firstretention element fitting into a second retention element or vice versa.In some embodiments, the bandage dispenser comprises 1-10 pairs ofopposing first and second retention elements. In further embodiments,the bandage dispenser comprises 2 pairs of opposing first and secondretention elements. In still further embodiments, the bandage dispensercomprises 1 pair of opposing first and second retention elements.

In yet another aspect, disclosed herein are methods of dispensingbandages comprising the step of: grasping and pulling an individuallywrapped bandage to remove the bandage from a multi-bandage pack; whereinthe bandage pack is securely retained by a dispenser body comprising areceiving surface with a first retention element and a hinged flap witha second retention element; provided that the hinged flap is folded tooverlay the receiving surface and a first retention element isreversibly interlocked with a second retention element to secure thebandage pack. In some embodiments, the first retention element, thesecond retention element, or both pass through the bandage pack. In someembodiments, the interlocking results from a first retention elementfitting into a second retention element or vice versa.

In yet another aspect, disclosed herein are methods of refilling abandage dispenser comprising the steps of: unfolding a flap hinged to adispenser body, wherein the dispenser body comprises a receivingsurface; removing a depleted bandage pack from the receiving surface;placing a new bandage pack onto the receiving surface, wherein thebandage pack comprises at least one individually wrapped bandage; andrefolding the hinged flap to overlay at least a portion of the receivingsurface such that a first retention element on the receiving surfacereversibly interlocks with a second retention element on the hinged flapsecurely retaining the bandage pack. In some embodiments, the firstretention element, the second retention element, or both pass throughthe bandage pack. In some embodiments, the interlocking results from afirst retention element fitting into a second retention element or viceversa.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows multiple non-limiting views of an exemplary bandagedispenser; in this case, a bandage dispenser adapted to accommodate twobandage packs.

FIG. 2 shows a non-limiting example of a bandage dispenser; in thiscase, a bandage dispenser comprising a dispenser body 100, a receivingsurface 110 with a pair of first retention elements 120, one hinged flap130 with a pair of second retention elements 150, and a pair of thirdretention elements 160. In this case, the hinged flap is not folded tooverlay the receiving surface and the first and second retentionelements are not interlocked.

FIG. 3 is illustrative of a non-limiting exemplary configuration of thebandage dispenser of FIG. 2; in this case, the hinged flap 130 is foldedto overlay the receiving surface 110 and the first and second retentionelements are interlocked securing the flap in the folded position.

FIG. 4 is illustrative of a non-limiting exemplary frontal view of thebandage dispenser of FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is illustrative of a non-limiting exemplary reverse view of thebandage dispenser of FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 is illustrative of a non-limiting exemplary side view of abandage dispenser; in this case, a dispenser with a flap 130 hinged to adispenser body 100 by a thin strip of flexible material 140.

FIG. 7 is illustrative of a non-limiting exemplary reverse view of thebandage dispenser of FIG. 2; in this case, the flap is folded to overlaythe receiving surface.

FIG. 8 is illustrative of a non-limiting exemplary reverse view of thebandage dispenser of FIG. 2; in this case, the hinged flap is unfolded.

FIG. 9 is illustrative of a non-limiting exemplary reverse view of thebandage dispenser of FIG. 2; in this case, the hinged flap is folded tooverlay the receiving surface and is not visible.

FIG. 10 shows multiple non-limiting views of an exemplary bandagedispenser; in this case, a bandage dispenser adapted to accommodate onebandage pack.

FIG. 11 is illustrative of a non-limiting example of a bandagedispenser; in this case, a bandage dispenser comprising a dispenser body100, a receiving surface 110 with a first retention element 120, onehinged flap 130 with a second retention element 150, and a thirdretention element 160. In this case, the hinged flap is not folded tooverlay the receiving surface and the first and second retentionelements are not interlocked.

FIG. 12 is illustrative of a non-limiting exemplary configuration of thebandage dispenser of FIG. 11; in this case, the hinged flap 130 isfolded to overlay the receiving surface 110 and the first and secondretention elements are interlocked securing the flap in the foldedposition.

FIG. 13 is illustrative of a non-limiting exemplary reverse view of thebandage dispenser of FIG. 11; in this case, the hinged flap is unfolded.

FIG. 14 is illustrative of a non-limiting exemplary reverse view of thebandage dispenser of FIG. 11; in this case, the hinged flap is folded tooverlay the receiving surface and is not visible.

FIG. 15 is illustrative of another non-limiting reverse view of thebandage dispenser of FIG. 11; in this case, the hinged flap is unfolded.

FIG. 16 is illustrative of another non-limiting reverse view of thebandage dispenser of FIG. 11; in this case, the hinged flap is folded tooverlay the receiving surface and is not visible.

FIG. 17 is illustrative of a non-limiting example of a bandage pack; inthis case, a bandage pack including a rigid cover 220 and a plurality ofindividually wrapped bandages 200. The bandages are bound to each otherand to the cover along a bottom edge 230.

FIG. 18 is illustrative of a non-limiting example of an individuallywrapped bandage; in this case, a bandage that has been removed from abandage pack. Part of the wrapper 310 is retained in the bandage pack,thus partially exposing the bandage 300.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Existing first aid system designs are overly complex resulting inincreased expense, consumer confusion, and potential for failures. Undueexpense discourages ubiquitous access, reducing effectiveness inemergencies. Where designs fail, individual bandages are not dispensedcleanly or ready to apply to a wound. Complex bandage dispenser designsalso discourage timely refilling of depleted bandage packs. Advantagesof the methods, devices, and systems for dispensing individual bandagesdescribed herein include a cost-effective bandage dispenser design thatencourages access, is easy to refill, and dispenses bandages in a cleanand ready to apply state.

Accordingly, disclosed herein, in various embodiments, are systems fordispensing bandages comprising: a dispenser body comprising a receivingsurface with a first retention element and a hinged flap with a secondretention element, wherein the hinged flap is foldable to overlay atleast a portion of the receiving surface; and at least one bandage packdisposed on said receiving surface, wherein said bandage pack comprisesat least one individually wrapped bandage; provided that when the hingedflap is folded to overlay said receiving surface, a first retentionelement reversibly interlocks with a second retention element thussecurely retaining said at least one bandage pack.

In various embodiments, provided are systems for dispensing individualbandages comprising: a dispenser body comprising: a substantiallyrectangular receiving surface with one or more first retention elements;a hinged flap with one or more second retention elements, wherein thehinged flap is foldable to overlay at least a portion of the receivingsurface such that each first retention element aligns with and opposes asecond retention element; one or more third retention elements on a sideopposite the hinged flap; one or more bandage packs disposed on saidreceiving surface, wherein each said bandage pack comprises a pluralityof individually wrapped bandages, wherein removal of an individualbandage from said pack causes a portion of the wrapper to be retained,thus freeing and partially exposing the bandage; provided that when thehinged flap is folded to overlay the receiving surface each firstretention element passes through a bandage pack and reversiblyinterlocks with a second retention element.

Also disclosed herein, in various embodiments, are bandage dispenserscomprising: a bandage pack receiving surface with one or more firstretention elements; and a hinged flap with one or more second retentionelements, wherein the hinged flap is foldable to overlay at least aportion of the receiving surface such that each first retention elementaligns with, opposes, and reversibly interlocks with a second retentionelement.

Further disclosed herein, in various embodiments, are methods ofdispensing bandages comprising the step of: grasping and pulling anindividually wrapped bandage to remove the bandage from a multi-bandagepack; wherein the bandage pack is securely retained by a dispenser bodycomprising a receiving surface with a first retention element and ahinged flap with a second retention element; provided that the hingedflap is folded to overlay the receiving surface and a first retentionelement is reversibly interlocked with a second retention element tosecure the bandage pack.

Disclosed herein, in various embodiments, are methods of refilling abandage dispenser comprising the steps of: unfolding a flap hinged to adispenser body, wherein the dispenser body comprises a receivingsurface; removing a depleted bandage pack from the receiving surface;placing a new bandage pack onto the receiving surface, wherein thebandage pack comprises at least one individually wrapped bandage; andrefolding the hinged flap to overlay at least a portion of the receivingsurface such that a first retention element on the receiving surfacereversibly interlocks with a second retention element on the hinged flapsecurely retaining the bandage pack.

Dispenser Body

In some embodiments, the methods, devices, and systems for dispensingindividual bandages include a dispenser body. In further embodiments, adispenser body includes a receiving surface with one or more firstretention elements, one or more hinged flaps with one or more secondretention elements, and one or more third retention elements. In stillfurther embodiments, a hinged flap is foldable to overlay a receivingsurface.

A dispenser body has many suitable shapes. In various embodiments, adispenser body is, for example, rectangular, square, rhomboidal,hexagonal, octagonal, polygonal, oval, circular, irregular, orcombinations thereof. In some embodiments, the shape of a dispenser bodyis chosen to accommodate the shape of a particular bandage and/orbandage pack. In other embodiments, the shape of a dispenser body ischosen to accommodate placement or mounting in a particular location.

In some embodiments, a dispenser body defines an interior compartment.In further embodiments, the interior compartment is box-shaped. In stillfurther embodiments, the interior of the dispenser body defines arectangular box-shape. In other embodiments, the interior of thedispenser body defines a square box-shape.

In some embodiments, a dispenser body includes a receiving surface. Insome embodiments, a receiving surface is formed by the back wall of adispenser body having an open box shape. In further embodiments, areceiving surface accommodates and contacts one or more bandage packs.In various embodiments, a receiving surface accommodates and contacts,by way of non-limiting examples, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12,13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30or more bandage packs. In some embodiments, a receiving surfaceaccommodates two bandage packs. In some embodiments, a receiving surfaceaccommodates one bandage pack.

A dispenser body has many suitable sizes. In various embodiments, adispenser body is, for example, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100,200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000 or more mm, includingincrements therein, in its largest dimension. In some embodiments, thesize of a dispenser body is chosen to accommodate the size of aparticular bandage and/or bandage pack. In other embodiments, the sizeof a dispenser body is chosen to accommodate placement or mounting in aparticular location.

Referring to FIG. 1, in a particular embodiment, a dispenser body isdesigned to accommodate the two bandage packs. In this particularembodiment, the dispenser body is substantially 95.4 mm wide, 109.7 mmtall, and 10.0 mm deep. The dispenser body defines a rectangular,box-shaped interior and forms a substantially rectangular receivingsurface. The receiving surface is substantially 91.6 mm wide and 104.6mm tall.

Referring to FIG. 10, in a particular embodiment, a dispenser body isdesigned to accommodate the one bandage pack. In this particularembodiment, the dispenser body is substantially 46.8 mm wide, 109.7 mmtall, and 10.0 mm deep. The dispenser body defines a rectangular,box-shaped interior and forms a substantially rectangular receivingsurface. The receiving surface is substantially 43.0 mm wide and 104.6mm tall.

In some embodiments, a dispenser body includes one or more flaps. Infurther embodiments, a dispenser body is connected to one or more flapsby one or more hinges. Many types of hinges are suitable. In variousembodiments, suitable hinges include, by way of non-limiting examples, abarrel hinge, a pivot hinge, and a continuous hinge. In someembodiments, a hinge is a sheet or strip of flexible material or ascored or perforated section of the dispenser body that is flexible suchthat the connection allows the flap to move (e.g., fold, pivot, bend,etc.). See e.g., FIG. 6. In some embodiments, a hinged flap is foldableto overlay a receiving surface. In further embodiments, a hinged flapoverlays a receiving surface entirely. In other embodiments, a hingedflap overlays a receiving surface partially. In various embodiments, adispenser body includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 or moreflaps. In some embodiments, a dispenser body includes a flapcorresponding to each bandage pack.

Referring to FIG. 2, in a particular embodiment, a dispenser body 100including a receiving surface 110 is connected to a flap 130 by a thin,flexible section of material forming a hinge 140. See also, e.g., FIG.11.

Referring to FIG. 3, in a particular embodiment, the dispenser body ofFIG. 2 is depicted in an alternative configuration with a hinged flap130 folded to overlay a portion of a receiving surface 110. See also,e.g., FIG. 12.

In some embodiments, a receiving surface includes one or more firstretention elements. In various embodiments, a receiving surface includes1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20,21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 or more first retention elements.In some embodiments, one or more first retention elements interact withanother retention element. In further embodiments, each first retentionelement interacts with a second retention element. In still furtherembodiments, each first retention element reversibly interlocks with asecond retention element.

In some embodiments, a hinged flap includes one or more second retentionelements. In various embodiments, a hinged flap includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24,25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 or more second retention elements. In someembodiments, one or more second retention elements interact with anotherretention element. In further embodiments, each second retention elementinteracts with a first retention element. In still further embodiments,each second retention element reversibly interlocks with a firstretention element. In some embodiments, a dispenser body comprises oneor more pairs of opposing retention elements such that when a hingedflap is folded to overlay a receiving surface, each first retentionelement aligns with and opposes a second retention element.

Many forms and designs are suitable for first and second retentionelements. In various embodiments, first retention elements are, by wayof non-limiting examples, snaps, clips, tabs, magnets, hook and loopfasteners, other fasteners, and the like, including combinationsthereof. In some embodiments, first retention elements are protrusionsfrom a receiving surface. In a particular embodiment, first retentionelements are hollow tubular protrusions. In some embodiments, the formor design of a first retention element is chosen to allow forinteraction, including reversible interlocking, with another retentionelement, such as a second retention element. Similarly, in variousembodiments, second retention elements are, by way of non-limitingexamples, snaps, clips, tabs, magnets, hook and loop fasteners, otherfasteners, and the like, including combinations thereof. In someembodiments, second retention elements are protrusions from a hingedflap. In a particular embodiment, second retention elements are hollowtubular protrusions. In some embodiments, the form or design of a secondretention element is chosen to allow for interaction, includingreversible interlocking, with another retention element, such as a firstretention element. In some embodiments, first and second retentionelements are positioned such that each first retention element alignswith and opposes a second retention element when a hinged flap is foldedto overlay a receiving surface. In further embodiments, an opposed pairof retention elements interlocks when, for example, one element of thepair fits into the other element of the pair.

Referring to FIG. 2, in a particular embodiment, a dispenser body 100includes a receiving surface 110 including two first retention elements120. In this embodiment, the first retention elements are hollow tubularprotrusions from the receiving surface 110. Continuing to refer to FIG.2, a dispenser body is connected to a flap 130 by a hinge 140. In thisembodiment, a hinged flap 130 includes two second retention elements150. Further in this embodiment, the second retention elements aretubular protrusions smaller than the first retention elements. Eachfirst retention element aligns with and opposes a second retentionelement such that they form interlocking pairs when a hinged flap isfolded to overlay a receiving surface. See also, e.g., FIG. 11.

Referring to FIG. 4, in a particular embodiment, the alignment of firstretention elements 120 and second retention elements 150 is visible. Inthis particular embodiment, the first and second retention elements formopposing pairs that interlock when a flap 130 is folded about a hinge140 to overlay a receiving surface 110.

FIG. 3 demonstrates a non-limiting configuration of a dispenser bodywherein first and second retention elements (not visible) areinterlocked to secure a hinged flap 130 in a folded position. See also,e.g., FIG. 12.

In some embodiments, a dispenser body in the folded configuration ofFIGS. 3, 7, 9, 12, 14, and 16 secures one or more bandage packs onto areceiving surface. In some embodiments, a dispenser body secures one ormore bandage packs onto a receiving surface by pressure, friction,adhesion, and the like, including combinations thereof. In furtherembodiments, a bandage pack is secured by a first retention element, asecond retention element, or an interlocked pair of first and secondretention elements passing through a bandage pack. In some embodiments,a retention element passes through a pre-formed opening in a bandagepack. In other embodiments, a retention element penetrates through aportion of a bandage pack when a hinged flap is folded to overlay areceiving surface, thus securing a bandage pack.

In some embodiments, a dispenser body includes one or more thirdretention elements. In further embodiments, one or more third retentionelements are positioned on a dispenser body on a side opposite a hingedflap or on a side opposite first and second retention elements. Invarious embodiments, a dispenser body includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26,27, 28, 29, 30 or more third retention elements. In some embodiments, adispenser body includes a third retention element corresponding to eachbandage pack. In various embodiments, third retention elements are, byway of non-limiting examples, snaps, clips, tabs, magnets, hook and loopfasteners, other fasteners, and the like, including combinationsthereof. In some embodiments, a third retention element interacts withone or more bandage packs. In further embodiments, a third retentionelement secures one or more bandage packs onto a receiving surface.

Again referring to FIG. 2, in a particular embodiment, a dispenser body100 including a receiving surface 110 further includes two thirdretention elements 160. In this embodiment, each third retention elementis a tab extending from a wall of a dispenser body parallel with areceiving surface 110. Further, in this embodiment, each third retentionelement interacts with a bandage pack to reversibly secure a bandagepack to a receiving surface. Also, a third retention element, forexample, prevents a bandage pack from bending away from a dispenser bodyor receiving surface during removal of individual bandages. See also,e.g., FIGS. 3, 4, 5, and 7.

Again referring to FIG. 11, in a particular embodiment, a dispenser body100 including a receiving surface 110 further includes one thirdretention element 160. In this embodiment, a third retention element isa tab extending from a wall of a dispenser body parallel with areceiving surface 110. Further, in this embodiment, a third retentionelement interacts with a bandage pack to reversibly secure a bandagepack to a receiving surface. Also, a third retention element, forexample, prevents a bandage pack from bending away from a dispenser bodyor receiving surface during removal of individual bandages. See also,e.g., FIG. 12.

In light of the disclosure provided herein, the dispenser body, flaps,and retention elements are constructed from materials known to themanufacturing arts using techniques, tools, and machines known to theart. Suitable materials for the dispenser body, flaps, and retentionelements are durable and rigid. Therefore, suitable materials include,by way of non-limiting examples, layered or corrugated paper, wood,plastic (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate, high-density polyethylene,polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, high impact polystyrene,acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, and polyamide), metal (e.g., aluminum,steel, iron, nickel, titanium, zinc, and tin), carbon fiber, andcombinations thereof. In some embodiments, the materials are opaque. Inother embodiments, the materials are transparent. In some embodiments,the dispenser body includes a rear wall with features adapted tofacilitate mounting the dispenser to a fixed surface. In furtherembodiments, features adapted to facilitate mounting include, by way ofnon-limiting examples, pre-drilled holes (see e.g., FIGS. 1-5, 7-16),adhesive, hook and loop fasteners, magnets, and suction cups.

Bandage Pack

In some embodiments, the methods, devices, and systems for dispensingindividual bandages includes at least one bandage pack. In variousembodiments, the system includes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 ormore bandage packs, including increments therein. In furtherembodiments, the system includes 2 bandage packs. In still furtherembodiments, the system includes 1 bandage pack. Bandages (also referredto as adhesive bandages, sticking plasters, and plasters) are smalldressings often used to cover and protect minor to moderate injuries. Insome embodiments, a bandage pack includes a rigid cover that is foldedto enclose a plurality of individually wrapped bandages. In furtherembodiments, the individual bandages extend vertically beyond the upperedge of a cover such that the individual bandages are available to graspand remove from the pack. In some embodiments, the individually wrappedbandages are bound to each other and to the cover, such that removal ofan individual bandage from the pack causes the bound portion of thewrapper to be retained, thus freeing and partially exposing a bandagefor application. In further embodiments, a free, partially exposedbandage is easily and rapidly applied to an injury with one hand. Insome embodiments, individually wrapped bandages are bound to each otherand to the cover along a bottom edge. In further embodiments, binding isaccomplished, for example, by gluing, stapling, crimping, or melting thebandage pack cover and the individual bandages along a bottom edge.

In some embodiments, each bandage pack includes a pre-formed opening. Infurther embodiments, a pre-formed opening allows one or more elements ofa bandage dispenser (e.g., retention elements, etc.) to pass through thepack. In still further embodiments, one or more elements of a bandagedispenser (e.g., retention elements, etc.) pass through a bandage packto secure a pack to a receiving surface, thus retaining a pack in adispenser. In other embodiments, each bandage pack includes aperforated, thin, or weakened area adapted to allow one or more elementsof a bandage dispenser (e.g., retention elements, etc.) to be forcedthrough a bandage pack to secure a pack to a receiving surface. Infurther embodiments, one or more elements of a bandage dispenser (e.g.,retention elements, etc.) are forced through a bandage pack when ahinged flap is folded to overlay a portion of a receiving surface.

In various embodiments, each bandage pack includes 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15,20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 or more individually wrapped bandages,including increments therein. In some embodiments, each bandage packcomprises 5 to 40 individually wrapped bandages. In further embodiments,each bandage pack comprises 10 to 20 individually wrapped bandages. Invarious embodiments, individual bandage are fabric bandages, plasticbandages, washproof bandages, waterproof bandages, butterfly bandages,knuckle bandages, strip bandages (e.g., rectangular), and spot bandages(e.g., circular).

In some embodiments, more than one bandage pack is disposed in theinterior compartment of the dispenser body and the packs are the samesize. In other embodiments, more than one bandage pack is disposed inthe interior compartment of the dispenser body and the packs are not thesame size. In various embodiments, a bandage pack is 10, 15, 20, 25, 30,35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100 mm or more wide,including increments therein. In various embodiments, a bandage pack is75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115, 120, and 125 mm high. In variousembodiments, a bandage pack is 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50,55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80 mm or more deep, including increments therein. Infurther embodiments, a bandage pack has dimensions selected from: 72 mmwide×40 mm deep×107 mm long, 62 mm wide×40 mm deep×107 mm long, 60 mmwide×40 mm deep×107 mm long, 80 mm wide×27 mm deep×107 mm long, 80 mmwide×34 mm deep×107 mm long, and 80 mm wide×40 mm deep×107 mm long. Insome embodiments, the individually wrapped bandages have sizes selectedfrom: 45 mm×51 mm, 40 mm×10 mm, 76 mm×38 mm, 76 mm×25 mm, and 76 mm×19mm.

In light of the disclosure provided herein, a bandage pack andindividually wrapped bandages are constructed from materials known tothe manufacturing arts using techniques, tools, and machines known tothe art. Suitable materials for a bandage pack cover include, by way ofnon-limiting examples, paper, cardstock, corrugated paper, and plastic(e.g., polyethylene terephthalate, high-density polyethylene, polyvinylchloride, polypropylene, high impact polystyrene, acrylonitrilebutadiene styrene, and polyamide). Suitable materials for a bandage arenon-irritating, durable, and flexible and include, by way ofnon-limiting examples, textiles of natural fiber (e.g., cotton, linen,and hemp), textiles of synthetic fiber (e.g., nylon, polyester, aramid,olefin, and acrylic), and plastic (e.g., polyvinyl chloride, low-densitypolyethylene, and polypropylene). Suitable materials for a bandagewrapper are easily torn and include, by way of non-limiting examples,paper and waxed paper.

Referring to FIG. 17, in a particular embodiment, a bandage packincludes a cardstock cover 220 that is folded along a bottom edge 230 toenclose a plurality of individually wrapped knuckle bandages 210. Thebandage wrapper 200 includes transparent material such that theindividual bandage 210 is visible through the wrapper.

Referring to FIG. 18, in a particular embodiment, a strip bandage 300 isfreed from a bandage pack and the bound portion of the wrapper isretained in the bandage pack such that only an unbound portion of thewrapper 310, 320 is associated with the bandage. In this freed andpartially exposed state, the bandage 300 is available for easy and rapidapplication with one hand.

EXAMPLES

The following illustrative examples are representative of embodiments ofthe methods, devices, and systems for dispensing individual bandagesdescribed herein and are not meant to be limiting in any way.

Example 1 Manufacture of a Bandage Dispenser

The inventor of the instant application created a low cost bandagedispensing system design. The design included a bandage dispenser bodyand a plurality of disposable bandage packs, which each includedindividually wrapped bandages.

The dispenser body design specified a rectangular dispenser body with asubstantially flat back wall forming a surface for receiving disposablebandage packs and four side walls. The walls of the dispenser weredesigned to be 1.7 mm thick. The back wall and side walls of thedispenser body defined an open box shaped interior space that wasrectangular having dimensions of 91.6 mm width, 104.6 mm height, and10.0 mm depth. The design of the dispenser body included a receivingsurface with two integral first retention elements. The first retentionelements were hollow and tubular in shape. The design of the dispenserbody also included a flap attached to one edge of the body by a thin,flexible strip of material forming a hinge. The flap was designed tofold about the hinge to overlay the receiving surface. The hinged flapwas designed to include two integral second retention elementspositioned to align with the first retention elements when the flap wasfolded to overlay the receiving surface. The second retention elementswere designed to fit snugly within the hollow of the first retentionelements forming a reversible interlocking mechanism. When interlocked,the retention elements held the flap in a folded configuration. Thedesign of the dispenser body also included two third retention elementson the wall of the dispenser body opposite the hinged flap. The thirdretention elements were designed as tabs of material extending from thedispenser body wall parallel to the receiving surface. The thirdretention elements were offset from the receiving surface by 2.0 mm. Theback wall of the dispenser body was designed with two mounting holes tofacilitate mounting the dispenser on a surface.

The bandage dispensing system also included several types of bandagepacks. The bandage pack design included a rigid cover folded to enclosea plurality of individually wrapped bandages. The individual bandageswere designed to extend vertically beyond the upper edge of the coversuch that the individual bandages are available to grasp and remove fromthe pack. The design of the packs included individually wrapped bandagesbound to each other and to the cover, such that removal of an individualbandage from the pack causes the bound portion of the wrapper to beretained, thus freeing and partially exposing a bandage for application.The packs were designed to fit into the interior space of the dispenserbody in contact with the receiving surface. Each bandage pack wasdesigned with a circular, pre-formed hole. The design specified thatwhen a bandage pack was disposed on the receiving surface of thedispenser body, the first and second retention elements passed throughthe pre-formed hole when the hinged flap was folded to overlay thereceiving surface. When the first and second retention elements wereinterlocked with each other, the bandage pack was secured within thedispenser body. The cover of each bandage pack slid under a thirdretention element, thus securing the opposite end of the pack as well.

The bandage dispenser was injection molded of nylon material accordingto the specifications of the design. Two bandage packs were securedwithin each bandage dispenser to form the assembled system.

Example 2 Use of a Bandage Dispenser

A 39-year-old male cuts the thumb of his left hand while choppingvegetables in his home kitchen. He has previously placed three separatebandage dispensers in his home, one in his garage, one in his bathroom,and another in his kitchen pantry. When he realizes that he his injured,he uses a clean paper towel to apply pressure for one minute in order toslow the bleeding. Subsequently, he reaches for a bandage to cover andprotect the wound as well as to further control bleeding. He grasps anindividually wrapped strip bandage, which is bound in a bandage pack.Each individually wrapped bandage is bound to the others in the pack andto a moderately rigid bandage pack cover. The wrapper of each bandage isscored such that removal of an individual bandage from the pack causesthe bound portion of the wrapper to be retained, freeing and partiallyexposing the bandage. The pack is further secured within a nylon bandagedispenser (manufactured as described in Example 1), which is mounted tothe wall of his pantry.

When the man pulls upward on the individual, wrapped bandage, themounted dispenser retains the bandage pack. The resulting forceseparates the bandage wrapper, freeing a partially unwrapped bandage,cleanly and ready for application. The bound portion of the wrapper isretained in the bandage pack. He applies the bandage to his injuredthumb.

Example 3 Refilling of a Bandage Dispenser

Three days after the events described in Example 2, the injured mandecides to replace the partially depleted bandage pack which he andother members of his family have used several times. To refill thebandage dispenser (manufactured as described in Example 1), he graspsthe folded, hinged flap on the front of the mounted dispenser and pullsoutward (e.g., toward himself) and downward. The first and secondretention elements disengage and the flap folds (e.g., rotates about thehinge) downward, away from the receiving surface of the dispenser. Theman next pulls the depleted bandage pack outward, away from thereceiving surface, which removes the first retention element from thepre-formed opening in the bandage pack. He finally pulls the cover ofthe depleted bandage pack downward and outward to free it from under thethird retention element.

He places a new bandage pack into the bandage dispenser, thus refillingthe system. To do this, he slips the top edge of the bandage pack coverunder the tab of the third retention element and pushes the hollow tubeof the first retention element through the pre-formed opening at thebottom of the bandage pack. He then folds (e.g., rotates) the flap aboutthe hinge so that it overlays the bandage pack and the receiving surfaceof the dispenser. He presses firmly on the folded flap to force thesecond retention elements on the hinged flap into the hollows of thefirst retention elements on the receiving surface, securing the bandagepack within the bandage dispenser.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown anddescribed herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art thatsuch embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerousvariations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilledin the art without departing from the invention. It should be understoodthat various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention describedherein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended thatthe following claims define the scope of the invention and that methodsand structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents becovered thereby.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for dispensing bandages comprising: a. adispenser body comprising a receiving surface with a first retentionelement and a hinged flap with a second retention element, wherein thehinged flap is foldable to overlay at least a portion of the receivingsurface; and b. at least one bandage pack disposed on said receivingsurface, wherein each bandage pack comprises at least one individuallywrapped bandage, wherein the first retention element, the secondretention element, or both pass through at least one of said at leastone bandage pack; provided that when the hinged flap is folded tooverlay said receiving surface, the first retention element reversiblyinterlocks with the second retention element thus securely retainingsaid at least one bandage pack.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein saidfirst and second retention elements cooperate to define one or morepairs of opposing retention elements such that when a hinged flap isfolded to overlay the receiving surface, each first retention elementaligns with and opposes a second retention element.
 3. The system ofclaim 2, comprising one to ten pairs of opposing retention elements. 4.The system of claim 3, comprising one or two pairs of opposing retentionelements.
 5. The system of claim 3, wherein at least one pair ofopposing retention elements passes through at least one bandage pack. 6.The system of claim 1, comprising one to ten bandage packs.
 7. Thesystem of claim 6, comprising one or two bandage packs.
 8. The system ofclaim 6, comprising a hinged flap corresponding to each bandage pack. 9.The system of claim 1, wherein each bandage pack comprises three tofifty individually wrapped bandages.
 10. The system of claim 1, whereineach bandage pack comprises one or more pre-formed openings for passageof one or both of the first retention element and the second retentionelement.
 11. A system for dispensing individual bandages comprising: a.a dispenser body comprising: i. a substantially rectangular receivingsurface with one or more first retention elements; ii. a hinged flapwith one or more second retention elements, wherein the hinged flap isfoldable to overlay at least a portion of the receiving surface suchthat each first retention element aligns with and opposes a secondretention element; iii. one or more third retention elements on a sideopposite the hinged flap; b. one or more bandage packs disposed on saidreceiving surface, wherein each said bandage pack comprises a pluralityof individually wrapped bandages, wherein removal of an individualbandage from said pack causes a portion of a wrapper to be retained,thus freeing and partially exposing the bandage; provided that when thehinged flap is folded to overlay the receiving surface each firstretention element passes through one or more of said one or more bandagepacks and reversibly interlocks with an aligned one of said one or moresecond retention elements.
 12. The system of claim 11, comprising one toten pairs of opposing retention elements.
 13. The system of claim 11,comprising one to ten bandage packs.
 14. The system of claim 11, whereineach bandage pack comprises one or more pre-formed openings for passageof at least one of said one or more first retention elements, said oneor more second retention elements, or both.
 15. A bandage dispensercomprising: a. a substantially flat bandage pack receiving surface withone or more first retention elements protruding from the receivingsurface; and b. a hinged flap with one or more second retentionelements, wherein the hinged flap is foldable to overlay at least aportion of the receiving surface such that each first retention elementaligns with, opposes, and reversibly interlocks with an aligned one ofsaid one or more second retention elements.
 16. The bandage dispenser ofclaim 15, further comprising one or more third retention elements on aside opposite the hinged flap.
 17. The bandage dispenser of claim 15,wherein said first and second retention elements are adapted to retainone or more bandage packs by passing through an opening in each pack.18. The bandage dispenser of claim 15, comprising one to ten pairs ofopposing first and second retention elements.
 19. The bandage dispenserof claim 18, comprising one or two pairs of opposing first and secondretention elements.